Is Allentown or Mechanicsburg Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Mechanicsburg is safer than Allentown (Safety Score 62/100 vs 45/100), with a total crime rate of 1,335 per 100,000 versus 1,841 for Allentown — 27% lower. Allentown has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Mechanicsburg has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Allentown is 12.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Allentown — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Mechanicsburg — 0-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Allentown, PA
Mechanicsburg, PA
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Allentown | Mechanicsburg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,841.1 | 1,335.2 | +505.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 272.1 | 59.3 | +212.7 |
| Murder Rate | 3.2 | 0.0 | +3.2 |
| Rape Rate | 26.5 | 9.9 | +16.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 57.0 | 0.0 | +57.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 185.4 | 49.5 | +135.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,569.0 | 1,275.8 | +293.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 121.2 | 168.1 | -46.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,252.0 | 1,038.5 | +213.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 195.8 | 69.2 | +126.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Allentown or Mechanicsburg safer?
Mechanicsburg is safer with a total crime rate of 1,335 per 100K vs 1,841 for Allentown — a 27% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Allentown has a violent crime rate of 272.1 per 100K while Mechanicsburg has 59.3. Mechanicsburg has lower violent crime.
About Allentown, PA
Allentown, a former industrial hub in eastern Pennsylvania, is the third-largest city in the state. Home to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, it sits along the Lehigh River with a diverse population. With a safety score of 45/100 and a population coverage of 124,599, Allentown has a total crime rate of 1,841.1 per 100,000 residents.
About Mechanicsburg, PA
Mechanicsburg, a borough in Cumberland County, was a key stop on the Cumberland Valley Railroad. Its suburban landscape is home to a diverse population, reflecting a mix of long-time residents and those drawn to its proximity to Harrisburg. With a safety score of 62/100 and a population coverage of 10,111, Mechanicsburg has a total crime rate of 1,335.2 per 100,000 residents.